How much does it cost to replace a RAM evaporator?
Replacing a RAM evaporator typically means swapping out the A/C evaporator coil inside the dash of a RAM pickup. The total bill usually falls in the broad range of a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars, depending on parts, labor, and how accessible the component is in your specific model.
What is the RAM evaporator and why replacement is needed
The evaporator is the heat exchanger inside the vehicle’s climate-control system. It absorbs heat from the cabin air as refrigerant passing through the coil changes from liquid to gas. Over time, evaporators can corrode, develop leaks, or become clogged, which may lead to reduced cooling, odd smells, or refrigerant leaks. Replacing it is a labor-intensive process because many RAM models require dash disassembly to access the coil.
Cost breakdown
Prices can vary by model year, labor region, and whether you choose aftermarket or OEM components. Here is a typical breakdown to help set expectations.
- Parts and materials: Evaporator coils can range from about $150 to $800, with aftermarket parts generally at the lower end and OEM (the original equipment manufacturer) parts at the higher end. In RAM trucks, OEM replacements tend to be in the upper part of that range.
The following costs are typical for professional installation and related services.
- Labor: Because the dash often must be opened or removed to reach the evaporator, labor can run 3 to 7+ hours. At typical shop rates of $75 to $150 per hour, labor can be roughly $225 to $1,050.
Additional service items you may see on the bill.
- Refrigerant recharge and system evacuation: $50 to $150 for recharge, plus potential costs for evac and leak testing.
- Diagnostics and disposal: Some shops charge a diagnostic fee (often $50 to $100) and a refrigerant disposal fee if applicable.
Putting it all together, most RAM evaporator replacements fall roughly in the $400 to $2,000 range. In many cases, customers report typical totals around $800 to $1,500, depending on part choice and local labor rates.
Factors that influence price
Several variables can tilt the final price up or down. Consider these when budgeting for a RAM evaporator replacement.
- Vehicle model and year: Different RAM models (e.g., light-duty pickups versus heavier-duty variants) have different dash configurations and access points, which affects labor time.
- OEM vs aftermarket parts: OEM parts are usually more expensive but are designed to match the original specifications, while aftermarket options can save money but vary in quality and fit.
- Labor rates by region: Urban areas or markets with higher living costs typically command higher hourly rates.
- Extent of related work: If the system has leaks, a new receiver/drier or expansion valve may also be replaced, increasing both parts and labor costs.
- Warranty and service plan: Some extended warranties may cover certain A/C component jobs, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
In short, price variability is driven mainly by parts selection and the amount of dash work required to access the coil, plus any accompanying system service needs.
DIY vs professional replacement
Replacing an evaporator is generally considered a complex, hands-on repair best left to a trained technician. The job involves refrigerant handling, precise electrical connections, and careful dash removal or disassembly. Attempting a DIY replacement could lead to refrigerant leaks, improper cooling, or damage to the HVAC controls.
- Professional route: Pros include proper refrigerant handling, evaporator performance verification, and compliance with environmental regulations. Cons are the higher labor cost.
- DIY route: Pros include potential cost savings on labor if you have the tools and experience. Cons are higher risk of improper installation and refrigerant handling issues, which can be dangerous and illegal in some jurisdictions.
Most RAM owners facing evaporator replacement choose professional installation to ensure the job is done correctly and the system remains sealed and safe.
Where to get an estimate
To get an accurate quote, contact several sources in your area and provide your RAM model, year, and symptoms. Good sources include:
- RAM dealership service departments
- Independent auto repair shops with A/C specialization
- HVAC specialists who service automotive air conditioning
Ask for a written estimate that breaks out parts, labor, and any diagnostic fees. If possible, request OEM part pricing versus aftermarket so you can compare value versus longevity and fit.
Summary
Replacing a RAM evaporator is a major dash-level HVAC repair that typically costs between roughly $400 and $2,000, driven by parts type, labor time, and any additional system work. OEM parts and high labor rates push costs higher, while aftermarket parts and streamlined access can save money. If you’re budgeting for this repair, obtain multiple quotes, ask for a clear parts-and-labor breakdown, and consider the long-term reliability of OEM versus aftermarket components.
How much does it cost to replace the AC evaporator on a 2014 Ram 2500?
The average cost for a Dodge Ram 2500 AC Evaporator Replacement is between $1,184 and $1,544. Labor costs are estimated between $668 and $980 while parts are priced between $516 and $563. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
How much does it cost to replace the evaporator on a Dodge Ram 1500?
The total cost to replace a Dodge Ram 1500's evaporator ranges from approximately $800 to $3,500 or more, with the price depending on the parts, labor rates, and your vehicle's specific year and model. The evaporator core itself can cost between $80 and over $100, while the majority of the cost comes from the intensive labor, as the entire dashboard often needs to be removed.
Cost breakdown
- Parts: $80 to over $100 for the evaporator core itself, though prices can vary by brand and where you purchase it.
- Labor: Expect the labor costs to make up the bulk of the total price. The job is very labor-intensive, potentially requiring the removal of the entire dashboard, which can take many hours.
- Total: The total cost can range from around $800 to $3,500 or more, depending on the complexity for your specific model and where you have the work done.
Factors that influence the total cost
- Vehicle year and model: The specific year and model of your Dodge Ram 1500 will affect the part price and labor time.
- Labor rates: Labor rates vary depending on your geographic location and whether you go to a dealership or an independent mechanic.
- Additional repairs: It's often recommended to have a cooling system flush at the same time as the evaporator replacement.
How much does it cost to get an evaporator replaced?
The cost of replacing an AC evaporator coil ranges from $627 to $2,700, with most homeowners investing an average of $1,350. This includes both labor and refrigerant. If your AC's evaporator coil is still under warranty, you'll end up paying less because you primarily pay for labor and additional materials.
Is it worth replacing an evaporator in a car?
Is It Worth Replacing the AC Evaporator? Yes, absolutely. Although you can drive a car with a faulty AC evaporator core, it might be uncomfortable when the heat kicks in. In hot climates, having a broken air conditioning system can pose serious health risks, like heat strokes, especially for children and older adults.
